Fit for a King

“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasurers, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.”  Matthew 2:11

Most Christian homes will have at least one nativity scene set up as part of their Christmas decorations. In addition to the stable with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, there will be shepherds with sheep, and more than likely, three wise men with their camels. This is a lovely picture and has become the traditional view of Christ’s birth.

On the night Jesus was born, the angels announced it to the shepherds, who immediately hurried to see the Messiah. They then ran to share the good news with others. The wise men, or magi, were traveling from the east using the star to guide them to the location of the new king. These men were familiar with the stories of an expected savior, probably passed down from the time and teachings of Daniel in Babylon. They were coming, as was custom, to honor the newborn king.

Because of the three types of gifts presented to Jesus, we assume that there were three wise men. Most likely, there was a caravan of several men, because the distance between home and destination was great. Upon arrival in Bethlehem, the star directed them to a house where Mary and Joseph stayed with Jesus. Though still a baby, He was no longer a newborn.

The gifts of the wise men were standard gifts to honor a king or deity in the ancient world. Gold was a precious metal. Frankincense was a perfume or incense. Myrrh was an anointing oil.

These gifts also honor Jesus in a special way as God’s son.Gold honors His kingship and divinity. Frankincense honors His priesthood. Myrrh honors His suffering and death.

What gifts can we give to honor the King? Obedience to His word and sharing His love with others. Don’t get lost in the celebration of Christmas and forget the reason He came was salvation.

Dear Lord,
Thank you for Your willingness to step down from glory to become a servant in order for me to share eternity with You.

God's Gift

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”  Luke 2:8-12

The Christmas holiday brings thoughts of sharing and giving to others. Many feel compelled to donate money to charities or homeless shelters. Others volunteer time to serve meals or distribute toys to those less fortunate. The attitude of generosity and love hovers over our collective society. How I wish this could continue throughout the year and not just for a season.

Gifts – given and received – also become the focus for celebrating. Don’t lose sight of the greatest gift – God’s Son. Jesus, the promised Messiah, savior of the world.

As you gather with friends and family this year to celebrate Christmas, I challenge you to read the full account of the birth of Jesus in the second chapter of Luke. Imagine yourself on the hillside among the shepherds tending the flock of sheep. Gaze with wonder upon the angels as they announce the birth of Jesus. Rush alongside the men hurrying to the stable to find Christ the Lord, just as the angel told them. Feel the amazement, not temporary fascination, but holy wonder – adoration.

Now that you truly connect to the real reason for the season, spread the word. Tell others about this most precious gift. Ponder the meaning in an attempt to understand it. Be amazed by it. Celebrate Christ.

Dear Lord,
Thank you for giving the gift of salvation. Please help me remember the true meaning of Christmas and to spread the word.